SKIING Location : Gulmarg in Jammu and Kashmir Ski Destination : Apharwat Top, at an altitude of 2, 730m Also Known as : Kashmir's Upland Premium Hill Resort, The Alps of Good Old Days Major Attraction : Gandola Cable Car Lift

Adventure Rafting

Trekking Aerosports

Golfing

Skiing – A Surreal Experience

Skiing had gained immense popularity during the time of pre independence and at that time. Skiing is the sport that involves sliding over snow by the help of flat runners, referred as skis and are attached to the boots or the shoes. These runners are used by the skiers to maintain balance and counter their velocity as well as directions. Though used as a means of transport in the olden days, it has become a popular recreational activity in the 20th century. It is the activity of gliding over the snow. This sport involves a lot of skill and practice. Skiing is a recreation that has gained immense popularity across the globe.

The snow covered hills of Kashmir with its undiscovered meadows and the lush green environment is a perfect mixture of adventures that are capable of thrilling and terrifying you, at the same time. Skiing is one such sport that is gaining huge recognition in Kashmir. Credence of Skiing in Kashmir has developed majority because of the presence of the mighty Himalayas, which is a perfect location for this sport. Played on high altitude, skiing is ideal to escape from the scorching heat of the blazing sun. the cool breeze on the hilltop eliminates the presence of dust in the air, purifying the atmosphere.

Destination For Skiing

Gulmarg

Pahalgam

Sonamarg

Gulmarg is the most important part of Kashmir, where people indulge in skiing. Nestling at an altitude of 2,730m, Gulmarg valley is referred as the 'Kashmir's upland premium hill resort' and offers some of the best skiing options available in the world. The snow condition of this place from the period between December To April, is the ideal time to get engrossed in this sport. Training centers have been set up here to facilitate the tourists. All kinds of skiing equipments of international repute are also available here. It is also home to The Indian Institute of Skiing and Mountaineering, where skiing courses are offered.

Gulmarg, highest lift-served ski resorts in the world, caters to 'the ultimate beginner's as well to the professionals. Facility of the Gandola Cable Car Lift from Gulmarg to Apharwat top, is the main reason behind its popularity as it has become convenient to reach the mountain top and also offers the panoramic view of the valley. It is also the cheapest ski resort in the world, in addition. Due to the world wide recognition of this sport, there has been a steadfast growth in the quality of the skiing slopes, as well. Tourists from all over the world are trained here for this activity.

Skiing Tips

Himalayas is a region of extreme temperatures and you cannot afford to wear just woolen clothes and head towards the slopes. A lot of preparatory steps are supposed to be undertaken before you take up skiing. Waterproof ski jackets with taped seams, venting zippers and insulating stretch components prove comfortable. To protect yourself from the harmful UV rays of the sun, you should always wear a ski goggles. It will also help in keeping yourself away from frostbiting or snow blindness. A helmet adds to the level of safety. Though skiing is a sport that can be savored by everyone, expectant mothers and people suffering from heart ailment and blood pressure disorder are not allowed to participate.